(MEMPHIS, Tenn.) - After implementing innovative research and developmental programs over the last five and a half years that refortified the current, as well as the future of the U.S. cotton breeding community specifically and agriculture in general, Cotton Incorporated's Dr. Roy Cantrell is resigning effective March 23, 2007.

"It was with understandable regret that I announced this news to our Board of Directors recently, but I understand the opportunity which has been presented to Roy," states J. Berrye Worsham, president & CEO of Cotton Incorporated.

Cantrell has accepted the position of Molecular Breeding Technology Lead for Monsanto at their corporate headquarters in St. Louis, Missouri.

While this is certainly a loss for Cotton Incorporated, the program that Cantrell will direct at Monsanto has the potential for dramatic scientific impact on future genetic gains in several crops across all of agriculture, and especially in the areas of cotton yield and fiber quality. Cantrell's expertise in breeding and plant DNA will be a great asset to Monsanto and to future developments in U.S. cotton.

During his tenure guiding the Agricultural Research division, he has elevated the stature of Cotton Incorporated research with notable achievements such as "Cotton Incorporated Fellowship" (CIF) program and the Sustainability Initiative. "Roy's expertise in molecular breeding has been a great benefit to Cotton Incorporated as we transitioned more projects to this area of great potential for cotton, added Worsham. "I believe the Vice President of Agricultural Research position is absolutely vital to Cotton Incorporated because it affects the overall cotton industry." Worsham will work with a consulting firm in a national search for applicants to fill the vacancy-similar to the process that was undertaken when Dr. Cantrell was hired.

About the Cotton Board:

The Cotton Board administers and oversees the Cotton Research & Promotion Program conducted by Cotton Incorporated and funded by America's cotton producers and importers. The Program works to increase the demand for and improve the market position of cotton. For more information about the Cotton Board, visit www.cottonboard.org.